The Sound of West Texas Buffalo Marching Band is poised to make a vibrant return on September 4, 2025, during West Texas A&M University’s home opener against the Colorado School of Mines. This season promises an exciting blend of musical themes, featuring two distinct shows that will alternate between pregame and halftime performances.
Innovative Themes for 2025
Dr. B.J. Brooks, the director of the marching band and the WT School of Music, has announced that this year’s repertoire will include a special focus on songs that incorporate the name “Johnny” and a captivating show inspired by the globally popular video game, “Minecraft.”
“We are excited to bring a collection of new music that we haven’t played before with the ‘Minecraft’ show and some old favorites with ‘Johnny’,” Brooks expressed. “They both offer numerous opportunities for small ensemble and solos so our students can show off their talents on the field. There certainly will be something for everybody.”
The “Minecraft” show will not only feature music from the hit 2025 movie but will also include Coldplay’s iconic “Viva La Vida,” which has gained popularity through various “Minecraft” memes. Audiences can expect to see the band create beloved shapes from the game, such as the Lava Chicken and the Creeper, bringing an interactive element to the performance.
In contrast, the “Here’s Johnny” show will delight fans with classic tunes like “Johnny One-Note,” “When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again,” and the theme from “Jonny Quest,” among others. This mix of nostalgia and contemporary flair is sure to resonate with a diverse audience.
A Dedicated Ensemble
The Sound of West Texas marching band comprises over 140 members, including both music majors and non-majors, serving as a cornerstone of the WT School of Music within the Sybil B. Harrington College of Fine Arts and Humanities. The band commenced a week of intensive rehearsals on August 18, while percussion and color guard members began their preparations earlier on August 14.
Leading the ensemble is head drum major Dillon Martin, a senior music performance major from Odessa. He is supported by a talented team of assistant drum majors: Damonusess “DJ” Brooks Jr. from Houston, Michael Genera from El Paso, Gaby Morales from Wylie, and Isaiah Nañez from Dumas. The color guard is led by captain Jazmyn McKell, with co-captains Nadia Jeter and Regan Rath assisting in preparing their squad for the upcoming performances.
Jack Montgomery, a senior music education major from College Station, takes on the role of lead marching tech, ensuring that the marching and visual techniques are polished and well-executed throughout the season. The band’s leadership also includes a range of officers responsible for various aspects of the organization, from the president, Isaiah Nañez, to the historian, Kevin Olivas.
With the guidance of assistant marching band directors Dr. Ryan Boehme and David Lough, the Buffalo Marching Band is set to deliver an unforgettable experience this fall, blending creativity and musicality in a way that celebrates both tradition and innovation.
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